'People are intimidated' - why 'powerhouse' Arsenal are the squad everyone fears.

It's evident why Arsenal have become countless pundits' preferred choice to secure the Premier League in the current campaign.

Examine their outcomes against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those equivalent matches during the prior term.

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

Impenetrable Rearguard

Arsenal's defensive strength is a primary factor why they are appearing strong to finally fulfil their title goal.

They lead the league for unbreached games (6), shots let in (3), attempts against (72), shots on target faced (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The center-back duo 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 effectiveness from free kicks is highly documented, but rival sides still find it difficult to stop the Gunners from these situations.

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

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

Title Credentials

What is especially notable about Arsenal's commencement to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City at home - and are still four points clear 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 long-awaited first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far yielded results in impressive fashion, with his side second top scorers in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Clean sheets 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 experts have described Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now performing with belief and resolve.