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The proof is undeniable why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' top picks to secure the Premier League this season.

Consider their performances against Fulham and Crystal Palace compared to those identical matches during the prior term.

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

Defensive Prowess

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

They rank top for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), attempts against (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

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

Dead-Ball Dominance

Their threat from set-pieces is well known, but competing clubs still struggle to stop the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have notched 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 fear factor. People are just afraid of them and it is great to see."

Championship Pedigree

What is particularly remarkable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City on home turf - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their traditional rivals are struggling. This marks the premier instance at this point 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 outset, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in search of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the business has so far paid off in impressive fashion, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and possessing the tightest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Clean sheets in three straight Premier League games
• Over six hours without conceding a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across every tournament

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