'People are intimidated' - the reasons 'powerhouse' Arsenal are the team to beat.

The proof is unmistakable why Arsenal have become countless pundits' favorites to claim the Premier League this season.

Look at their outcomes against Fulham and Crystal Palace versus those equivalent matches last season.

The Gunners have overcome all of them in the current season, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they fell away in the title race previously.

Impenetrable Defense

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a key reason why they are appearing strong to finally fulfil their title ambition.

They lead the league for unbreached games (6), shots let in (3), opposition efforts (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

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

Dead-Ball Excellence

Their threat from set-pieces is well known, but rival sides still struggle to contain 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 do a bit of everything now. The whole team has a daunting aura. People are just fearful of them and it is wonderful to see."

Championship Claims

What is especially notable about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also played 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 continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents aren't faring so well. This marks the premier instance 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 boss Mikel Arteta at the beginning, having allocated around £250m on eight summer additions in quest of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far yielded results in impressive fashion, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Unbreached games in three straight Premier League games
• Over six hours without conceding a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across various contests

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