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The evidence is undeniable why Arsenal are now many people's preferred choice to claim the Premier League this season.

Consider their performances against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those same matches in the previous campaign.

The Gunners have beaten all of them during this campaign, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they fell away in the title race in the prior campaign.

Defensive Strength

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

They rank top for shutouts (6), shots let in (3), shots faced (72), shots on target faced (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 Expertise

Their effectiveness from free kicks is well known, but rival sides still struggle to contain the Gunners from these chances.

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

"Arsenal can perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just wary of them and it is great to see."

Title Credentials

What is even more remarkable about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City at home - and are still ahead by four points at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents face difficulties. This marks the initial occasion 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 expectations was on boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer signings in search of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the investment has so far paid off in style, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Shutouts in each of their last three Premier League games
• 385 minutes without allowing a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and pundits have described Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now functioning with conviction and determination.