Board Thread:Wiki/@comment-24930713-20150810223555/@comment-5774380-20150812200831

I don't think so. That's similar to the end that Isayama had originally planned for the story, where everybody dies tragically; but he said that after seeing the success of the series, he had to think on another end because that could negatively impact the fans; so for the same reason, I don't think he will kill one of the protagonists and leave the fans shocked because he died without realizing his dreams. Again, that's why he didn't kill Sasha, so even less Armin.

This chapter was intended as a preparation, with everyone remembering the events of the past months, their dreams and motives, before departing to another adventure; so I think Armin's speech was just that, to remind the reader what they have passed for and what they are fighting for.