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The evidence is undeniable why Arsenal have become numerous fans' top picks to win the Premier League in the current campaign.

Examine their outcomes against Newcastle and Crystal Palace versus those identical matches during the prior term.

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

Impenetrable Rearguard

Arsenal's backline resilience is a key reason why they are appearing strong to at last realize their title ambition.

They lead the league for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), attempts against (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

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

Set-Piece Expertise

Their threat from set-pieces is highly documented, but rival sides still find it difficult to contain 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 resulting from these situations.

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

Title Potential

What is especially 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 ahead by four points at the top.

While they keep winning, their long-standing opponents 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 scrutiny was on boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having invested around £250m on eight summer additions in quest of that coveted 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 most resilient defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Clean sheets in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without allowing a goal
• Only a handful of concessions in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and pundits have characterized Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now performing with belief and resolve.