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It's evident why Arsenal stand as countless pundits' favorites to claim the Premier League in the current campaign.

Examine their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace compared to those same matches in the previous campaign.

The Gunners have defeated all of them this time around, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race last season.

Impenetrable Rearguard

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a key reason why they are looking well positioned to finally fulfil their title target.

They stand first for unbreached games (6), shots let in (3), attempts against (72), shots on target faced (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

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

Set-Piece Expertise

Their effectiveness from free kicks is widely recognized, but rival sides still struggle to stop the Gunners from these situations.

They have notched 11 times from set-pieces in the league, two more than any other side, with 69% of their goals originating from these situations.

"Arsenal can excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just wary of them and it is excellent to see."

Championship Claims

What is even more remarkable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City on home turf - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they keep winning, their historic competitors face difficulties. This marks the first time at this stage of the season since 1992 that none of Manchester City and United, Liverpool or Chelsea are in the Premier League top four.

The expectations was on boss Mikel Arteta at the start, having spent around £250m on eight summer additions in pursuit of that long-awaited first title since 2004.

But the business has so far proven successful in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Shutouts in three straight Premier League games
• 385 minutes without letting in a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across all competitions

Former players and analysts have characterized Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now functioning with confidence and resolve.