'People are intimidated' - the reasons 'juggernaut' Arsenal have become the side to defeat.

The proof is undeniable why Arsenal have become countless pundits' preferred choice to win the Premier League in the current campaign.

Look at their results against West Ham and Crystal Palace versus those equivalent matches in the previous campaign.

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

Impenetrable Defense

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

They stand first for unbreached games (6), shots let in (3), opposition efforts (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

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

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their danger from dead balls is well known, but competing clubs still find it difficult to contain the Gunners from these chances.

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

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

Championship Claims

What is particularly remarkable 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 face difficulties. 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 manager Mikel Arteta at the outset, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in pursuit of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far paid off in style, with his side second top scorers in the league and boasting the tightest defense, despite several injuries.

• Unbreached games in each of their last three Premier League games
• 385 minutes without letting in a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across all competitions

Former players and analysts have characterized Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now functioning with conviction and determination.