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There's no doubt why Arsenal stand as countless pundits' preferred choice to win the Premier League this season.

Consider their outcomes against West Ham and Crystal Palace compared to those same matches during the prior term.

The Gunners have beaten all of them during this campaign, but dropped 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race previously.

Impenetrable Backline

Arsenal's defensive strength is a primary factor why they are appearing strong to finally fulfil their title target.

They lead the league for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), opposition efforts (72), quality opportunities against (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is arguably the finest in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their threat from set-pieces is well known, but rival sides still find it difficult to contain the Gunners from these chances.

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

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

Championship Claims

What is especially notable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United on the road and Manchester City at home - and are still ahead by four points at the top.

While they keep winning, their historic competitors face difficulties. This marks the first time 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 pressure was on manager Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in quest of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far proven successful in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and possessing the most resilient defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Clean sheets in each of their last three Premier League games
• Nearly 6.5 hours without allowing a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across various contests

Former players and pundits have characterized Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now performing with conviction and purpose.