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The proof is undeniable why Arsenal have become many people's favorites to claim the Premier League in the current campaign.

Look at their results against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those identical matches in the previous campaign.

The Gunners have overcome all of them during this campaign, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they faded in the title race in the prior campaign.

Defensive Prowess

Arsenal's defensive strength is a crucial element why they are looking well positioned to ultimately achieve their title ambition.

They stand first for shutouts (6), shots let in (3), attempts against (72), quality opportunities against (19) and xGA (5.3).

The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the finest in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Dead-Ball Superiority

Their danger from dead balls is well known, but opposition teams still find it difficult to stop the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have registered 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra than any other side, with 69% of their goals resulting from these situations.

"Arsenal can perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just afraid of them and it is wonderful to see."

Championship Credentials

What is particularly impressive about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they keep winning, their traditional rivals are struggling. This marks the initial occasion at this juncture of the season since 1992 that none of Manchester City and United, Liverpool or Chelsea are in the Premier League top four.

The scrutiny was on head coach Mikel Arteta at the start, having spent around £250m on eight summer additions in quest of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far yielded results in impressive fashion, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and possessing the strongest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Shutouts in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without allowing a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across various contests

Former players and pundits have characterized Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now operating with belief and determination.